Blind Men and the Elephant Pronunciation: /blaɪnd mɛn ənd ði ˈɛl.ɪ.fənt/ (BLYND men and the EL-ih-fənt)
Definition: An ancient parable found in several cultures (notably Indian, Jain, Buddhist, and Sufi traditions) in which a group of blind men each touch a different part of an elephant and, based on their limited experience, assert conflicting descriptions of what the animal is like. The story illustrates how individuals can have partial, subjective, or limited perspectives on a larger truth, leading to misunderstanding or disagreement.
Example: A discussion about climate change can resemble the Blind Men and the Elephant, with each side focusing on one aspect of a complex issue and missing the bigger picture.